Category: Philippines Daily Inquirer

Mirra Andreeva revealed a secret Tuesday after she and Andrey Rublev ended the reign of the two-time US Open mixed doubles champions.

She used to have a crush on her partner.

‘I’ve never said anything, I’ve never told him anything as well, but I used to have a little crush on him as well,’ Andreeva said during an interview on the court.

The French Open champion added that it was ‘like a dream come true to play with my favorite’ before being unable to finish that sentence when Rublev interrupted to give her a hug as the crowd cheered.

The crush is over – the 19-year-old Andreeva said it was when she was 15 or 16 – but their tournament goes on. The Russians will play Wednesday night in the semifinals against Karolina Muchova and Jakub Mensik.

They began the event by outlasting Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori 1-4, 4-1 (11-9), then emerged from another match tiebreaker to edge Diana Shnaider and Casper Ruud for their semifinal spot.

Rublev, 28, is perhaps most recognizable for his red hair and his occasional outbursts on the court. Andreeva definitely noticed his appearance, but thought he was kind despite the tirades.

‘I mean, first of all, his hair, OK?’ she responded when asked why she was drawn to him.

‘So many interviews I saw and so many things that I heard from other people, I just knew he’s a great person. I didn’t know him at that time yet. I don’t know, I just feel like he’s super kind, very nice with everyone. Again, the hair. I don’t know, everyone said that every time he would step on court, he would look tired. I don’t know, he was looking great every time for me.’

Rublev’s response to Andreeva’s revelation?

Apple is set to launch their latest refresh, the 2026 Mac mini. This comes at a time when budgets for consumer computing has been stifled from the current AI hardware demands. That being said, a price increase of roughly $300 since 2024 is not that bad given the current market situation.

The upcoming Mac mini will cost P64,990 powered by the new M6 chip.

‘Mac mini has always been our most versatile Mac. Whether it’s being used as a home computer, powering a professional studio, or as an always-on agentic device, it’s the little Mac that can do it all,’ said Johny Srouji, Apple’s chief hardware officer. ‘Today, we’re taking this versatility even further. With a more powerful CPU and graphics, Neural Accelerators in the GPU, and higher memory bandwidth, Mac mini with M6 delivers a whole new level of AI performance. And with up to an 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU, Mac mini with M5 Pro is an ultracompact powerhouse for complex pro workflows. We can’t wait to see all the incredible ways people will use it next.’

Tech specs

Powered by the all-new M6 or M5 Pro, the new Mac mini brings a dramatic boost in performance and even more versatility in its ultracompact desktop design.

Featuring the all-new M6, Mac mini now delivers up to 4x faster AI performance, 2x faster graphics, and 2x faster storage, along with 40 percent faster CPU performance.

Mac mini with M5 Pro delivers even more pro-level performance to breeze through demanding projects from video production to game development.

Both Mac mini models include Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, as well as upgraded 2.5Gb Ethernet, with a 10Gb option available.

Pricing and Availability

Mac mini with M6 starts at ?64,990 and ?57,990 for education. Additional technical specifications are available at apple.com/mac-mini. Mac mini with M5 Pro starts at ?119,990 and ?112,990 for education.

The Anti-Red Tape Authority (Arta) said on Tuesday it stands ready to ensure that projects within the contentious Pax Silica hub are processed quickly while remaining ‘completely aligned with the national interest’ of the Philippines.

In a statement, the agency that oversees the government’s antired tape and ease-of-doing-business policies, said it was already working with regulators across the semiconductor ecosystem to streamline processing times, compliance costs and interagency procedures for the planned industrial hub in New Clark City.

This could give prospective investors greater regulatory certainty as the Philippine government seeks to attract capital into Pax Silica, a United States-led initiative aimed at securing supply chains for critical minerals, semiconductors and other advanced technologies.

‘This will ensure that government regulations must not only protect the environment but also provide for a business-enabling environment to attract investors,’ the Arta said. ‘Pax Silica is an opportunity for the Philippines to take the lead for future technology.’

So far, no locators have been confirmed for the planned Pax Silica hub in Tarlac, as the framework that will govern the site is still under negotiation. The government, however, previously said it was eyeing Taiwanese electronics manufacturing giant Foxconn as a potential anchor locator.

Nevertheless, the agency expressed its full support for the proposed development, which it described as an advanced manufacturing complex focused on wafer fabrication, chip design and critical minerals processing.

The Arta also reiterated the Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s position that the 1,619-hectare development will not be a hub for hyperscale data centers.

Instead, the government is positioning it as a hub for capital-intensive, higher-value manufacturing that could help the Philippine semiconductor industry move further up the global technology value chain.

The Arta also touted projections that Pax Silica could attract between $40 billion and $70 billion in domestic and foreign investments and create higher-skilled jobs for Filipino engineers, researchers, computer science professionals and technical workers.

But the agency stressed that faster government processing would not mean relaxing regulatory requirements for Pax Silica projects.

The Arta said that under the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act, streamlining should improve the speed and efficiency of government processes but ‘does not authorize the disregard for statutory mandates.’

Neither would it compromise legal, environmental and social safeguards under the Constitution, including the public’s rights to due process and participation, the agency added.

Looking ahead, the Arta said it would continue coordinating with other government regulators, local governments and the private sector to make the regulatory environment surrounding Pax Silica ‘fast, fair and transparent.’

Due to online threats, the local government unit (LGU) here extended the suspension of face-to-face classes until September 2, amid security concerns.

Mayor Amie Galario extended the suspension of in-person classes across all public and private schools through Executive Order No. 093, Series of 2026, issued on Tuesday.

Face-to-face classes in all levels in public and private schools here were suspended by the LGU since last Monday, as a continued precaution following the deadly school shooting in Zamboanga City on Aug. 18 that claimed the lives of two students, including the shooter.

The extension stemmed from a wave of alarming social media posts warning of potential gun and grenade attacks targeting students and faculty members at identified local schools.While the extended break provided some financial relief for households in the city, it also brought concerns over learners’ academic progress.Grace, a 34-year-old mother with children in public elementary and high schools, noted that the shutdown helped her save on daily transportation allowances and meal expenses.However, she admitted she would still prefer regular face-to-face classes for her children’s learning development.The successive days of class suspensions, where schools implemented alternative learning modalities, also heavily impacted small-scale business owners who rely on student foot traffic.Sidewalk vendors stationed near school perimeters, school canteens, and public transport operators-including drivers of motorelas, habal-habal motorcycles, and school utility vehicles-experienced a notable drop in daily income due to the class suspension.

Valencia City has 65 primary and secondary schools under the Department of Education, and there are 37 private educational institutions.

Online threats against schools in the city first surfaced last Saturday, with the police tracing the post to a teenager who is now held by authorities.

Two groups advancing the welfare of public school teachers said the law should extend more protection to educators who face ‘unjustified complaints’ for just performing their duty to impose discipline on students.

The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) Philippines and the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) called on Congress to act on a bill providing for legal assistance and other forms of support for teachers in such a predicament.

‘At a time where there are increasing cases of children involved in violence, we are prepared to be of assistance to parents, communities, and the government in guiding the youth, but we also need sufficient and concrete support and protection,’ ACT chair Ruby Bernardo said.

In a statement on Tuesday, Bernardo said teachers nowadays are increasingly facing complaints from students or their families for instilling classroom discipline.

‘It is our responsibility and duty as teachers to shape our youth into humane and patriotic beings, but we are limited by the burden that our way of imparting discipline and guidance to students will be put in a precarious situation,’ Bernardo said.

‘Set up to fail’

With ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio as principal author, House Bill No. 56, or the draft Teacher’s Protection Act, also calls for the formulation of a student manual per school defining the appropriate student behavior toward other students, teachers, and school staff.

‘When a teacher is placed in an environment where discipline is necessary, but the means of enforcing it are unclear, the system is effectively setting the teacher up to fail,’ TDC said in a statement issued on Monday.

‘We want to make it clear that any form of abuse or misconduct by a teacher must never be tolerated. At the same time, teachers must also be protected as they carry out their duties,’ it added.

The bill should not be limited to protecting teachers from baseless complaints but also set clear procedures for addressing allegations, ensure due process, and provide them with legal and psychosocial support, TDC said.

On Day 18 of the Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial, Office of the Vice President Assistant Chief of Staff Lemuel Ortonio takes the witness stand on Tuesday to testify on the alleged misuse of P500 million in confidential funds.

Ortonio allegedly accompanied former OVP special disbursing officer Gina Acosta, the previous witness presented to the court, when she encashed P500 million in confidential funds from LandBank Shaw Blvd., in increments of P125 million every quarter from the last quarter of 2022 until the third quarter of 2023

When Kevin Quiambao was tapped to be part of Gilas Pilipinas’ long-term program a few years ago, he made it a point to make the most of his minutes.

With the second round of the 2027 Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers coming up, the La Salle product’s mentality remains the same.

‘From the start, when Coach Tim (Cone) got me at the very first window, I told myself to stay ready every time, whenever the opportunity comes, to take every moment and make the most out of it,’ he said.

‘I’ll do whatever I can to contribute for the team and for the country. Same thing. I’ll do whatever I can to be effective for the team.’

Quiambao did just that when he showed his readiness for Gilas during the third window of the qualifiers.

After scoring 24 points across four games in the first two windows, the 25-year-old forward had his breakout performance for the Philippines.

Quiambao played his best game for Gilas against New Zealand, scoring 23 points on top of three rebounds, one steal and a block in a heartbreaking double-overtime loss last July in Auckland.

Quiambao picked up the slack with Justin Brownlee struggling and dealing with injuries.

He faces the same predicament in Gilas’ crucial homestand against Jordan and Iran with Brownlee out anew.

And just like his previous outing, Quiambao isn’t the type who backs down from a challenge, especially when he has the full support of his teammates.

‘I’m thankful and blessed that my teammates are giving me confidence every single game.’

Gilas Pilipinas’ second round campaign tips off Friday against Jordan before clashing with Iran on Sunday with both games taking place at Mall of Asia Arena.

In the Philippines, the arrival of the ber months signals the unofficial beginning of the holiday season, and with it comes the excitement of dressing up for gatherings, discovering new beauty rituals, planning thoughtful gifts, and finding little luxuries worth indulging in.

With ‘Start the Ber Months in Style’ as its theme, Lazmall Luxury’s two-day campaign sets the tone for the festivities ahead, inviting shoppers to embrace the season early, indulge in considered discoveries, and find meaningful pieces for themselves and the people who matter most, all on LazMall.

With a curated selection of luxury and premium names, LazMall Luxury offers shoppers an elevated way to kick off the holiday season as it brings together premium names in one trusted destination,

making this the perfect occasion to discover, celebrate, and shop for what’s to come.

Need some ideas? Start your seasonal refresh with the staples and check out the timeless Lacoste Men’s Classic Fit Piqué Polo Shirt and Malbon Bennett Knit Polo Sweater, or add a stylish touch to your golf days with the Malbon Kodiak Performance Golf Bag.

For beauty finds, the right foundation base is a must. Pick up Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face Base+ primer for a hydrated, glowy, makeup-ready base.

If you prefer your skincare essentials with an extra touch of indulgence, Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair Recovery Treatment Essence and Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex, together with the Pure Color Gelee Glow Oil and the Glossy Pout Tinted Lip Oil, provide a regimen for skin that deserves a little more attention and pampering. Meanwhile, La Mer’s Rejuvenating Eye Cream and Refreshing Balance Collection bring an elevated touch to everyday self-care and recovery, perfect for slowing down before the holiday rush begins.

Other brands you can find on LazMall Luxury include Chloe, Songmont, Harman Kardon, Diageo, and Sasa Official Store, among others.

From coveted fashion and beauty pieces to lifestyle essentials and statement gifts, LazMall Luxury makes it easier for discerning shoppers to discover pieces that feel special, while shopping with the confidence that comes from authenticity and LazMall’s trusted brand experience.

Whether refreshing a personal wardrobe ahead of holiday gatherings, finding beauty must-haves for festive occasions, elevating the home for celebrations, or getting an early start on meaningful gifts, head on to LazMal Luxury on August 26 – 27 and welcome the season in style.

For more information, you can visit Lazada Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

The body of an 8-year-old boy who drowned in Calumpit town was found in waters near Manila Bay on Tuesday, Aug. 25, according to a report received by the Bulacan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

Ran Romy Ortillano reportedly drowned in a river in Barangay Iba O’ Este, Calumpit, on Sunday, Aug. 23. His body was found floating off the island barangay of Masukol in Paombong town at around 5:10 a.m., PDRRMO head Manuel Lukban Jr. said.

The victim was identified through his clothing and physical features.

According to Enriquito Santiago Jr., head of the Calumpit Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Ortillano went to the river at around 5 p.m. to look for river snails, or kuhol. He was standing near the riverbank when he accidentally slipped and fell into the water.

His 49-year-old neighbor, Jonie Soronio, immediately dove into the river to rescue him. Soronio managed to grab the boy and swim with him on his back, but the strong current caused him to lose his grip.

Other residents joined the rescue effort and tried to push the boy toward the riverbank, but the strong current eventually swept him away.

Backflow from Pampanga and the mountainous areas of Bulacan has kept Calumpit under about 5 feet of floodwater.

Amid the southwest monsoon, or habagat, and typhoons Maymay and Luis, Calumpit was placed under a state of calamity on Aug. 10.

‘Pinoy Big Brother’ alum Joj Agpangan has officially entered motherhood as she and her non-showbiz husband, Danny, welcomed their first child, baby boy John Evan.

Agpangan announced the arrival of their son through a series of posts on her Instagram page on Monday, Aug. 24.

‘The sweetest chapter begins now. Welcome home, our sweet boy. John Evan Fries,’ she wrote, adding that her son was born in July. ‘Thank You God for everything.’

In her Instagram Stories, Agpangan recounted her birthing journey, saying she endured two and a half days of labor.

‘Got induced early. Two and a half days of labor. Over 60 hours that pushed me further physically, mentally, and emotionally than I ever knew I could go,’ she said. ‘It was raw, exhausting, and pure surrender but God gave me the strength for every single hour.’

The actress then expressed her gratitude to Danny whom she described as her ‘absolute rock.’

‘You held my hand through the hardest hours and never let me feel alone in it. Truly couldn’t have crossed the finish line without you,’ she addressed him. ‘I’m just so grateful to do this life with you.’